Experiences of mastectomy and breast reconstruction with ME/CFS

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Hi,

I am new to the forum and looking for some shared experiences of cancer surgery from people who also have ME or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome as I am going through treatment for breast cancer.

I'm due to have a mastectomy and possible reconstruction in late February and I'm really nervous about the effect of such a big surgery on me with the ME/CFS. I'd be really grateful if anyone could share their experience of this surgery, the general anaesthetic and the overall recovery time if they also have the condition.

Many thanks.

  • Hi   and a very warm welcome to the Community but sorry to hear about your diagnoses.

    Navigating the cancer journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but getting support from people who have walked the ‘exact same' cancer journey can help a lot. (I have a completely different cancer).

    The New to Community is like our reception desk where we look to direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend a good place to start is by joining and posting in our dedicated Breast Cancer support group. This is a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.

    To connect in with the group click on this link> Breast cancer then once the group page opens click on “Click to Join” when the black banner appears or “Join” under “Group Tools” (this all depends on the device you are using)

    When you are ready you can introduce yourself by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title. You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.

    It’s a challenging time for you so you may want to use the Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear.

    We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow a few working days for a reply.

    Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing and give support to all the family.

    Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.

    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

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